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Edgaras YankauskasForward
Date of Birth: 12.03.1975
Country:  Lithuania |
Content:
Early Career and Move to Belgium
Edgaras Jankauskas began his career at "Žalgiris", where he became a champion and the top scorer in 1995. He then moved to Russia in 1996, starting with spells at CSKA Moscow and "Torpedo". However, during the 97/98 season, he transferred to "Club Brugge" in Belgium. In just half a season, he scored 8 goals in 17 matches and helped the team become champions.
Successful Stint in Spain
After his success in Belgium, Jankauskas made a move to Spain in January 2000. He joined "Real Sociedad" for a record fee of ?2.3 million for a Lithuanian player. In his debut season, he scored 4 goals and played a vital role in helping the club avoid relegation. The following season, he became the top scorer of the team with 11 goals. However, in 2001, the arrival of Darko Kovačević led to Jankauskas leaving the club.
Loan Spells and Move to Porto
Jankauskas was then loaned to "Benfica", where he showcased his talent by scoring 8 goals in 12 matches. Unfortunately, the club could not afford to sign him permanently. However, "FC Porto" managed to secure his transfer for ?2.3 million, and he signed a five-year contract with the Portuguese giants. During his time at Porto, the club enjoyed great success, winning the UEFA Cup in his first season and becoming national champions.
Later Career
After the departure of manager José Mourinho, Jankauskas was sent on loan to "Nice" in France. He struggled to find regular playing time and failed to score a single goal during his season-long loan. He returned to Porto but found it challenging to secure a place in the starting lineup due to competition from other players. Eventually, he signed a three-year contract with "Heart of Midlothian" in Scotland. He had a successful first season, adapting well to the physicality of Scottish football. However, injuries plagued him the following year, and he spent most of the season recovering. In 2007, he left the club, and there were rumors of a potential return to Spain with "Recreativo", but nothing materialized.
